Purchasing a home that is Heritage Listed or part of a Heritage Overlay provides a rather different scenario when considering renovations, maintenance or determining what are considered the actual Heritage features. Living in a Heritage property can provide significant issues without a thorough understanding of the parameters required by the Heritage Authority in this State (being Heritage Victoria).
A Heritage home can certainly be a joy to live in. High ceilings with ornate features, abundant natural light and expansive space to move.


A Heritage report from a qualified Heritage Architect can provide a clever pathway forward for such homeowners. Balance Architecture and its Principal Architect, Andrew Fedorowicz (FAIA) can provide such a report and, at the same time, provide a vision on the type of renovation and design concepts available under the circumstances. A Heritage Listing does not preclude possible changes that will facilitate genuine modern living and real comfort.


The Dilemma
Inner Melbourne used to be considered a 10 kilometre radius from the CBD but more recently this has now expanded to include properties within a 25 kilometre radius. Sadly, the situation sees a competition between ‘Developers’ and those who genuinely appreciate the beauty of Heritage Architecture
Many older homes in median suburbs such as Camberwell, Kew, Malvern, Elsternwick, Brighton, Essendon, Moonee Ponds – the list goes on – are well and truly under threat. Larger blocks, older homes built from the turn of the 20th century until the 1930’s are constantly under threat. Developers see open space (front yards, backyards and gardens) as a premium construction opportunity. The very idea of preservation is counter-productive to their interests.
As a consequence, it’s not unusual to see delightful Edwardian residences, often with slate roofing and terracotta gargoyles left to the elements. A famous example is the property on the corner of Denmark Street and Barkers Road, Kew. A lovely old Edwardian, the slate roof was holed and the place surrounded by security fencing.
Restoration the Smarter Alternative
Think of what the alternative might be. Restore the building to its original external structure. The six sided box – walls, floors and ceilings. Assess the foundations, the chimneys, verandas, windows and doors. Commission a proper Heritage Architectural Report.
Considering land value is it not just as sensible to restore such a property to a comfortable living condition? Add extensions and reconfigure the internal spaces, perhaps a pool and walled garden to the rear.
In ten year’s time the property value would be three to four times your initial investment – if you utilised a qualified Heritage Architect and plan an effective restoration and makeover.


For a full Heritage Report followed by a complete Heritage Restoration and Design package, call now on 0418 341 443 to speak with Heritage Architect, Andrew Fedorowicz ( Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects). Andrew offers experience, expertise and a passion for Heritage restoration. Alternatively, leave your details here for a prompt reply. Consultations are obligation free with no initial fees being charged.

